Reporting new and rehired employees

Washington employers need to report when they hire or rehire employees. Learn about the requirements and how to submit a report.

Why you need to report

Washington state law requires employers to report all new employees within 20 days of hiring. Employers also need to report rehired employees if they have not worked for that employer in the past 60 days.

This reporting rule helps the state collect child support and reduces unemployment fraud. Reducing fraud helps keep unemployment tax rates stable.

Visit the Washington State Legislature's page on laws for reporting hired or rehired employees (RCW 26.23.040) to learn more about the requirements.

Information you need to report

The employee's:

  • Name.
  • Address.
  • Social Security number (SSN).
  • Date of birth.
  • Date of hire.

The business's:

  • Name.
  • Address.
  • Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN).

How to report that you have hired or rehired employees

Report employees to the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). You will find all details on their website.

How we use the information

Once you report, DSHS shares the information with us. We use it to:

  • Prevent and track unemployment fraud.
  • Help determine the effectiveness of new or existing programs.
  • Help determine if people are eligible for the benefits we offer.